How Can We Make Sure Our Guests Are Comfortable at Our Outdoor Summer Wedding?

There's a reason everyone loves summer weddings. The weather is beautiful, flowers are in bloom, and you get to celebrate outside! However, in addition to the chance of an afternoon shower, you run the risk of winding up with a day that's warmer than expected or particularly bright sunshine. So how can you keep your guests comfortable in the summer heat? Our experts have a few ideas.

If you're spending part (or all) of your wedding day outside, you'll want to make sure that both you and your guests are prepared. Start the day off right with a station by the entrance to the ceremony featuring flavored waters and sunscreen. Dress it up by putting the water in glass beverage dispensers and pouring the sunscreen into a ceramic pump, paired with a little sign letting guests know it's SPF. Having your ceremony in a bright and sunny location? You might want to hand out favors early on and choose sunglasses or parasols over koozies. Paper folding fans would also be much appreciated if the temps are starting to rise!

For cocktail hour, offer guests a spot in the shade, whether it's on your venue's covered porch or beneath a shady tree. You might want to pop up some umbrellas or cabana-style tents with some seating underneath so people can step all the way out of the sun. For drinks, consider crushed ice cocktails like Mint Juleps or Moscow Mules.

When you're designing the reception, avoid clear-top tents in favor of something opaque — the clear plastic can create a greenhouse effect and turn a warm night into a sweltering one (and do a number on your flowers!). Keep the sides open as much as possible to allow a breeze to come through, or consider renting fans to circulate air. And that water station you set up before the ceremony? Keep it stocked all night, and arrange another one near the dance floor. Pass popsicles or ice cream later in the evening to cool everyone down, and turn that cocktail area into a late-night lounge where guests can catch their breath after the sun sets.